Australian Expats in the UAE
United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a second home for many nationalities in world. Because majority of UAE citizen are expatriates and belong to different parts of the world. Not only from one continent, people come to UAE, but people from America, Europe, and Australia are also living here. It is a rough estimation but 25000-30000 Australians are living in UAE (It is just a rough estimation, not absolute figure). They have also contributed to the progress rate of the UAE. Economic opportunities and luxurious lifestyles also attract Australians to the UAE. UAE is like second home for Aussies who enjoy while staying here. Though
Cultural differences create sometimes little difficulties but, Aussies are living here with comfort. ANZA Dubai is the association of Australians and New Zealanders living in United Arab Emirates.
A good job market
UAE is a good market for Australian workers and businessmen. UAE is a good place to explore work-related opportunities in this era. Australians can either apply for a job visa or become investors in UAE. They are in demand in different industries in the UAE, such as education, healthcare, and finance. The foremost reason for their demand is the dynamic education and expertise they bring from their home country.
No Income Tax
Australians find it interesting that there is no income tax like they have to pay in Australia. This gives them a chance to save money for the future and capitalize on their earnings.
Better Standard of Living
Everyone wants to live a good life. The truth is that a good lifestyle comes with money. The infrastructure and schooling system for their children is amazing for Australians like other expatriates citizen. This is according to international standards. They also find healthcare facilities better than anywhere else.
Cultural Dynamics
In a multicultural country, Australians find multiple ways to embrace vibrant colors and traditions in the United Arab Emirates. They have offered the Australian community cuisines and other traditions in UAE. It has helped the UAE foster a broader network, ensuring the safety of individuals at every step. Therefore Australians enjoy living and staying here in UAE.
Access to Other Destinations
The UAE is in a good geographical spot. Australians who want to travel to Asia, Africa, or Europe can easily travel within a few miles of the UAE. Emirates and Etihad are two airlines that can be explored by Australians in terms of affordability and ease. Dubai and UAE provide a good platform to Australians for doing business and trade.
Challenges Faced by the Australians in UAE
Relocating is always challenging. Shifting to another city is difficult, so how can one expect easy adjustments while shifting to a totally new country? However, the UAE government understand the problems of the expats:
Cultural Adjustments
Australian culture is different and westernized, whereas UAE culture is modern but revolves around Islamic values. Consequently, Australians have to respect people in the UAE by ensuring modest dress and ethical public behaviour and understanding the importance of Ramadan—the holy month for Muslims to fast.
Expensive Living Standard
The UAE is known for its rich lifestyle. It could be expensive to live in Dubai or Abu Dhabi because these two are hubs for businesses and job opportunities. Housing could be expensive in these two emirates compared to others. Also, the currency difference means that budgeting is important, ensuring a good lifestyle in Dubai.
Climate Change Challenge
The climate in Australia is different from the UAE because it is located in the desert, and summers can be terrible for Australians. The temperatures in summer usually go up to 40 degrees Celsius, restricting outdoor activities for Australians.
Law and Order Differences
Australians may find differences with UAE law enforcement. However, the UAE has developed a broad legal system consisting of Islamic and international laws. Hence, UAE regulations facilitate Australians by giving them the advantage of utilizing international laws in their family cases.
Technology in the UAE
Australians can stay connected with family through different social apps. However, WhatsApp video and audio calls do not work. Similarly there are several web applications and websites where you can’t have access in UAE. It might be a challenge for Aussies because they might have to stop using their favorites applications in UAE.
Survival of the Australians in the UAE
There are a few tips for Australians to learn before they plan to settle in the UAE:
Know about Culture
It is essential to know the local culture in the UAE so you do not get a cultural shock while meeting new people. Learning about their culture will also help you understand those people and their values so that you can network better and not hurt their sentiments.
Spend Wisely
You will come across many tempting brands in the UAE that you want to spend on. It is advised to budget every month, ensuring that everything is affordable for you, especially utilities such as electricity, water, and gas supply and the education of your children.
Network with Others
While you are in the UAE, good networking skills lead you to better job opportunities. You can talk to people who might be members of an Australian community, and they can invite you to their events. You will love to meet those people who come from the same background. It will allow you to share your experience in the UAE and learn about the UAE people and their traditions.
Learn Some UAE Laws
You should hire a lawyer for your employment and immigration matters. Hiring a lawyer will ensure your perfect documentation and legal compliance to live and work in the UAE.
Diversity
Embrace the diversity of the UAE. You will experience different cuisines, cultures and landscapes, especially the desert safari tour.
Is there any Legal Support for Australians in the UAE?
Lawyers in the UAE can help Australians with different laws and legal cases. Those legal services make understanding employment laws easy for Australians, as labour and employment lawyers can help them understand them in simple English.
Issues Faced by Australians
Australians are no different from other expats. They will find the same issues as other expats in the UAE. These issues emerge from an Australian individual’s personal and professional life. Usually, issues related to employment at work, family matters, and business problems are discussed with UAE lawyers. Some are also related to real estate and crime cases that are minor, such as violating traffic rules.
Importance of Legal Representation in the UAE
The lawyers help people by providing the best legal solution to their UAE problems. They ensure that individuals are working or making a decision per UAE laws. Moreover, if you have an agreement or a contract to discuss, the legal consultants are willing to help you with their expertise in business solutions. Further, legal experts help Australians deal with family cases related to marriage, divorce, custody, and child adoption. If you hire a lawyer in the UAE, you do not have to worry about anything because these lawyers strengthen the laws and will not let you do anything wrong.
How Can Australians Find UAE Legal Experts?
Finding legal consultants could be difficult in the UAE, especially when you need to learn about the UAE legal system. However, there are different ways to find a lawyer in the UAE:
Referrals
Let your friends help you find a good lawyer. Meeting another Australian in the UAE could be a blessing, and you can also ask the Australian Embassy to help you with your legal matter.
Internet Sources
There are online directories for lawyers. You can find a lawyer based on your legal case. Only some legal consultants have the expertise to manage all legal matters. Therefore, you have to find a lawyer that suits your legal case. It is a good source to find lawyers nowadays.
Should an Australian Settle in the UAE
Relating to another country with a completely different culture is a big decision. However, the UAE welcomes expats, and Australians are similar to other expats in the UAE. They will get the same attention as expats in the UAE, ensuring their protection and safety at all times. Australians should come to the UAE as the business sector demands the skills and experience that Australians have these days.